Best bars in Phra Nakhon

“Khaosan Road has developed into a world-famous "backpacker ghetto".[2][3] It offers cheap accommodation, ranging from "mattress in a box"-style hotels to reasonably priced three-star hotels. In an essay on the backpacker culture of Khaosan Road.”

“If Bangkok is a city where East greets West, then Khao San Road is the scene of their collision, the place where they jostle for superiority and poke one another in the eye. With travellers from every corner of the modern world, sleek clubs playing sophisticated sounds, eclectic market stalls, converted VW cocktail bars, and foods tamed to suit the Western palate, it may seem clear who won the fight. However, whether you're a hard-up farang (foreigner) or open-minded Thai, its irrepressible energy and carefree vibe makes it well worth a visit. ”

“In a cosy double shophouse on a quiet road that visitors don’t really frequent you will find one of the best restaurants in Bangkok. Seven Spoons is so popular that it's recently expanded, but still has the warm atmosphere and large portions of Mediterranean and vegetarian food regulars are familair with and first-timers will be excited by. It now opens for lunch and offers sandwiches alongside its hearty mains.”

“The Brick Bar is certainly one of Khao San's most happening places. The focus here is on live ska and reggae, and the huge joint can hold 1200 people, which it often does. Despite being in the heart of Khao San Road, the Brick Bar gets lots of young Thais who come to party and dance the night away. 3 bands play each night between 8 and 130, with Teddy Ska being the current favorite and top draw. It gets hot and sweaty in here, but everyone is having a good time and this remains one of the most lively clubs and nightspots in all the area if not in Bangkok.”

“This restaurant is set in what was once an old boatyard right by Phra Athit Pier, and you can still see remnants of this former life, in the form of the old pulleys, crates and buoys that adorn the dining area. Having debuted as a New American diner, Sheepshank has since taken a more European route with its new menu. Helmed by chef Somkiat "Joke" Pairojmahakij, of Seven Spoons, it’s no surprise you’ll find Mediterranean dishes like razor clams in lemon butter sauce (B340), salmon filets with sweet pea hummus (B490) and Paris ham ravioli with burnt butter and thyme (B380). They also serve a decent selection of wines and craft beer. 02-629-5165. Open Tue-Thu 5:30pm-midnight; Fri-Sun 5:30pm-1am”

“OPEN 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the last seven years, Mulligans Irish Bar on Khao San Road is without doubt one of the street’s most happening pubs. Every night there’s something fun going on. You might catch an impromptu performance by a famous Thai singer, say, or a birthday party featuring models strutting their stuff, or a St Patrick’s Day Party sponsored by Jameson Irish Whiskey (the latter’s definitely happening on March 17 – expect all kinds of drink deals). Picture Even on typical nights, when nothing special is planned, the pub’s atmosphere is always bouncing thanks to the popular house bands who play international hits into the early hours.”

“If you like blues music then this place is a very special place indeed. On any given night, you can discover some of the best blues music to be had in Bangkok. Pong and Nong, the owners, have been running the place for over 15 years and its like an old wine that just gets better and better. If you are really lucky, you might find an impromptu performance be some of the best underground folk musicians in Thailand.”

“They really do serve up super-refreshing and creative cocktails that are worth the drive if you’re not a local. The bar’s range of smoothies and burgers, not to mention its lovely & homey atmosphere.”

“Riva Surya’s restaurant and bar is decked out in contemporary French decor. Visit at sunset for the full deal: comfort food, tasty cocktails and views that take in the river and two bridges (Pinklao and Rama 8). Highly recommended come the smoked salmon and avocado salad (B280), best enjoyed with cocktails like Jamaican Fizz (vodka, mango fizz, mango, syrup and lime juice, B290). Quite possibly the best spot for a swanky meal on Phra Athit Road. 02-633-5000. Open daily 10:30am-10:30pm. ”

“There aren’t too many rooftop views of Phra Nakorn that match Jhamjun’s. If you’re afraid of the rainy season, they do have a retractable awning. The prices are reasonable and on top of the music, they also have a projector screen for all the live sports action”

“Hidden far from sight, this is Bangkok’s latest “secret” cocktail bar helmed by Anupas Premanuwat, who worked as a mixologist at New York's acclaimed Angel's Share speakeasy. To get here, you'll have to traverse a narrow and dark alley running alongside Brown Sugar jazz bar. The drinks menu changes on a monthly basis, with cocktails that spotlight local ingredients plucked from the fresh market (starting at B350). Ku also offers natural wines from cult wineries, including “orange wine” like Matias Michelini "Via Revolucionaria" Torrantes (B370/glass, B1,750/bottle) from Argentina. Book ahead. 469 Phra Sumen Rd., 02-067-6731. Open Thu-Sun 7pm-midnight ”